SAN DIEGO (February 2, 2018) – Matthew Ramon, Director of the MO’s Universe Group, along with Paris Sukomi Max, Moe Girton and Stefan Chicote, are slated to open the fifth location within the group, named insideOUT, in the first half of March.

insideOUT resides in the Eitol Towers (1642 University Avenue
San Diego, CA 92103) constructed by the award-winning San Diego-based architecture and development collaborative, FoundationForForm. The Eitol Towers are a new and modern mixed use urban infill created to stir things up, housing both residents and businesses in one location.

In Late 2016, Mike Burnett, Architect and Developer for FoundationForForm, sought out MO’s Universe to join the Eitol Towers restaurant and bar space.

Burnett stated, “Hands down I knew it had to be MO’s Universe – in fact my first call to Chris was met with some hesitation, as they weren’t really looking to open another place. Fortunately Matt convinced him to meet at the property and after a brief explanation of the concept, it was a done deal.”

Burnett goes on to explain, “Having been a long time patron of MO’s and Betty’s, I was familiar with their commitment to our community, their brand and most importantly their staff. I didn’t know Chris Shaw or Matt Ramon yet, but since I regularly attend the Dreamgirls show every Wednesday night, it was an easy connection to make. I knew they would fit the space great because my design intent was ‘upscale causal fun’ and it needed to extend more energy down University.”

Matt Ramon developed the concept and name of the new restaurant and lounge, drawing inspiration from the design of the Eitol building. insideOUT is just that, a space where you walk in to be outside.

“insideOUT, or iO as we have already nicknamed it, is a casual, elegant restaurant that features an atrium surrounded by 13 live/work towers juxtaposed to contrast with San Diego’s gorgeous blue skies, floor to ceiling glass front windows on the inside dining room and bar, a heated water feature (the boi pond), a switchback walkway with seating nooks to relax, see and be seen with a few more surprises along the way,” Ramon explains.

Ramon also stated, “The name is a nod to the LGBTQ community – we’re an out and proud LGBTQ owned and operated business.”

Ramon has enlisted Paris Sukomi Max to manage the new location which models itself to be Hillcrest’s sexy, chic and refined destination for those who want to enjoy fine dining, craft cocktails and relax in style.

“We are extremely excited to bring something new to Hillcrest, all while hiring from within our LGBTQ community. From custom tables built by local furniture designer Sven Hasselberg, to our craft cocktail menu developed by Gossip Grill’s very own Moe Girton. We are creating a space that has the same quality service MO’s Universe is known for, with an elevated lounge experience,” remarks Paris.

The culinary portion of insideOut is headed up by Maryjo Testa, a team member from Gossip Grill’s original crew. A native of California, Testa grew up in a close knit Italian family full of great cooks. Wanting to gain more knowledge and understanding of a global cuisine, she spent several years working and learning European styles, techniques and flavors at various restaurants in London and Italy.